A brief spectacle in Riyadh: Former world champion Anthony Joshua knocked out boxing newcomer Francis Ngannou with a brutal knockout. The fight ended in the second round.
A show of power in Saudi Arabia: Former world champion Anthony Joshua knocked out former UFC star Francis Ngannou with a memorable knockout. The British boxer won the match in Riyadh early Saturday morning, concluding it in the second round.
Joshua had brought the Cameroonian down with a powerful right in the first round. Ngannou appeared severely shaken but managed to get back up.
In the second round, Joshua delivered another right, sending Ngannou to the ground again. He was counted but managed to stand up again. However, moments later, the fight was over: Joshua went all out for the knockout and ended the match with the night’s hardest straight punch.
Joshua: “He fought the best”
Ngannou, who had given world champion Tyson Fury a tough time last October, completely collapsed from the punch and took a while to recover.
“I told him not to give up on boxing. He’s had two fights, and he fought the best,” said Joshua, who, according to media reports, received $50 million for the fight and celebrated his 28th victory in his 31st fight.
The 34-year-old celebrated his victory among others with star coach José Mourinho, who had watched from ringside. Legends like Ronaldo and Francesco Totti were also present.
Joshua vs. Fury?
After his career had hit a snag due to losses against Ukrainian WBA, WBO, and IBF champion Alexander Usyk, Joshua aims to return among the top contenders for a world heavyweight championship fight.
The decisive win immediately sparked speculation about a mega fight either against Usyk or Fury, who are set to duel in Saudi Arabia in May.
“You’re looking at the number one heavyweight in the world. In this form, there’s no man who can beat him. Tyson Fury, please beat Usyk, because you’re going to get the biggest fight in the history of sports,” boasted Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn.
